Hey Cowichan,

 We’ve heard your questions – here’s some curbside collection basics as we transition to the new service:

 Tote Storage

The CVRD is bear country!  There’s no such thing as a bear-proof tote, only bear-resistant; the longer a bear has with a tote, the more likely it is that it can break into it.  Between pick-ups, totes need to be stored in a secure location such as a garage or sturdy shed.  Freeze smelly items until pick-up day.

 Tote Set Out Time

Place totes at the curb by 7:30 AM and leave them out until 7:00 PM—pickup times may vary during the rollout of the new program. Do not leave totes out the night before.

 Tote Spacing

Totes too close? It slows things down—drivers may have to exit the truck to move them apart.

 Collection trucks are equipped with automated mechanical arms that lift and empty the totes.   These arms require space on all sides to operate properly.  Please follow these spacing guidelines:

• Leave 1 metre (3 feet) between each tote and any surrounding objects
• Ensure 2 metres (6.5 feet) of clearance behind the totes
• Maintain 3 metres (10 feet) of vertical clearance — avoid low-hanging branches or wires

Glass

The yellow glass bin is collected by a separate truck, so please leave it at the curb if the other materials are picked up first, or vice versa.

For more info on curbside collection, please visit:  https://www.cvrd.ca/3393/Curbside-Collection-Overview